Attractions and Places To See around Silvares (São Martinho) - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Silvares (São Martinho) are found within this civil parish and the wider Fafe municipality in Portugal. The region is characterized by varied landscapes, including the Monte Longo plateau and the Vizela River. Visitors can explore a blend of historical, cultural, and natural attractions. Silvares (São Martinho) serves as a gateway to the rich heritage of the Minho region.
Best attractions and places to see around Silvares (São Martinho)
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Last updated: July 1, 2026
Oliveira Square, Guimarães
Highlight • Historical Site
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Church of the Consolation and the Holy Steps
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Penha Sanctuary
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Praça de São Tiago
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Boulder Labyrinth
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Santiago Square, also known as São Tiago Square (Portuguese: Praça de Santiago), is a medieval city square in Guimarães. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the historic center of Guimarães. According to tradition, the Apostle James (São Tiago in Portuguese) brought an image of the Virgin Mary to Guimarães and placed it in a pagan temple in a square that was later named St. Tiago Square. Santiago Square is mentioned in numerous documents over several centuries and has retained many of its medieval features to this day. The now romanticized and photogenic medieval houses were once considered squalid and unhygienic. The space they occupied was long regarded as an "undignified" place.
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The very modern church towers over the city. Along with the rest of the complex on the hill, it's worth seeing.
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Fascinating landscape. The entire complex is beautifully designed, and everything is connected by paths between the stones (which look like oversized pebbles). The entire area is easily accessible by cable car and offers excellent dining options. There are restaurants and cafés to suit every taste. But there are also plenty of benches and tables among the stones for enjoying your own picnic.
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Beautiful view of the church.
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Largo da Oliveira Square owes its name to an ancient olive tree that once stood on this site. The still existing fence, with a small replacement tree, bears the year 1342. Surrounded by pretty, typically northern Portuguese houses, the square is the ideal starting point for exploring the city's streets on foot. The square also boasts several interesting landmarks: to the west, a curious little Gothic chapel, Padrão do Salado, dating from the time of King D. Afonso IV, which commemorates the Battle of Salado. There, in 1340, Portuguese and Castilian forces jointly defeated the forces of the Moorish king of Granada. Directly behind it lies the Church of Nossa Senhora de Oliveira (also known as the Colegiada). It is the first Gothic monument built in the Minho region. On the right side of the square, you can still see the former medieval town hall, with a stone sculpture that, according to tradition, represents Guimarães. Below, Gothic arcades lead to Largo S. Tiago, one of the city's most characteristic squares. https://www.visitportugal.com/de/NR/exeres/9FD0C908-905C-4119-8821-A155EC3C4CEB
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Very tastefully designed, not overdone
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A wonderful view over the fountain and the flowerbeds
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Second of two key plazas in the old town, this one has numerous restaurants with outdoor dining, shops and bars. We stopped here for a delicious lunch at Restaurante Santiago right on the square.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I visit near Silvares (São Martinho)?
The region offers a rich historical and cultural experience. You can explore the Oliveira Square, Guimarães, known for its rustic stone buildings and landmarks like the Padrão do Salado and the Church of Nossa Senhora de Oliveira. Another significant site is the Church of the Consolation and the Holy Steps, an 18th-century religious building with impressive architecture. Within Silvares (São Martinho) itself, the Igreja Matriz de Silvares São Martinho serves as a notable cultural and religious landmark. In the wider Fafe municipality, consider visiting the Memória Station, an interpretive museum showcasing regional history, or seeing the unique 'Justice of Fafe' Statues.
Are there any natural attractions or viewpoints around Silvares (São Martinho)?
Yes, the area boasts several natural features and viewpoints. The Boulder Labyrinth offers a unique rocky landscape with paths and picnic spots, perfect for exploring a distinctive geological formation. For panoramic views, the Penha Sanctuary, situated on Monte da Penha, provides fantastic vistas over the city and mountains. The region also features varied landscapes, including the Monte Longo plateau and the Vizela River.
What outdoor activities are available near Silvares (São Martinho)?
The surrounding areas are well-suited for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, mountain biking, and hiking. For example, there are challenging road cycling routes, moderate to difficult MTB trails, and easy hiking trails, including a scenic loop from Guimarães.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?
Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families. Oliveira Square, Guimarães, and Church of the Consolation and the Holy Steps are both listed as family-friendly. The Praça de São Tiago offers a lively atmosphere with restaurants and shops. The Boulder Labyrinth provides a fun, unique natural environment for exploration and picnics.
Where can I find places to eat or relax near the attractions?
The Praça de São Tiago in Guimarães is an excellent spot, featuring numerous restaurants with outdoor dining, shops, and bars. It's a central point to enjoy a meal or a drink after exploring the historic town. The Boulder Labyrinth also offers great picnic options.
What is the best time to visit Silvares (São Martinho) for outdoor activities?
The region's varied landscapes, including the Monte Longo plateau and the Vizela River, are generally pleasant for outdoor activities during spring and autumn when temperatures are mild. Summer can be warm, ideal for early morning or late afternoon excursions, while winter offers a different, often quieter, experience.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see in the region?
The town of Fafe, near Silvares (São Martinho), is known for its unique architecture, influenced by returning emigrants from Brazil. You'll find elegant manor houses and charming streets. In Guimarães, the historic center, including Oliveira Square and Praça de São Tiago, showcases rustic stone buildings and medieval features. The Church of the Consolation and the Holy Steps is a fine example of 18th-century design, while the Penha Sanctuary exhibits a more modern Art Deco influence.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or short walks?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. You can find easy hikes around Silvares (São Martinho), including a 5.7 km hiking loop from Guimarães and a 5.2 km loop around the Penha Sanctuary. These trails are perfect for those looking for less strenuous outdoor experiences.
What makes the historic center of Guimarães a must-visit?
The historic center of Guimarães, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval character. Key areas like Oliveira Square and Praça de São Tiago offer a glimpse into the past with their rustic stone buildings, historic landmarks, and charming atmosphere. It's an ideal place to wander through narrow streets and soak in the rich history.
What unique geological features can I explore?
The most prominent unique geological feature is the Boulder Labyrinth. This natural monument presents a fascinating rocky landscape with intricate paths, offering a distinctive environment for exploration and photography. It's a great spot to experience the natural geology of the region.
What is the significance of the 'Justice of Fafe' Statues?
The 'Justice of Fafe' Statues commemorate a historic form of self-defense and justice-making that was prevalent in Fafe and northern Portugal. This tradition involved the use of a wooden stick, symbolizing a unique aspect of the region's cultural heritage and local history.
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